As the ethnic conflict in Manipur shows no signs of ending anytime soon, a senior bureaucrat from the state has faced suspension for his refusal to join the post of Deputy Commissioner of Jiribam district. IAS officer Ng. Roben Singh was suspended under the provisions of Rule 3 of the All India Service (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 1969, by Manipur Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi.
This action comes in response to the officer’s non-compliance with a transfer order issued by the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms on August 2, that appointed Mr. Singh to the position of Deputy Commissioner in the Jiribam district of Manipur.
Mr. Singh’s had sent a response letter that included a representation dated August 12, in which he raised concerns about the volatile communal tensions existing between the Meitei and Kuki communities. He also articulated his reservations about assuming his duties in a region primarily inhabited by the Kuki community, as he belongs to the Meitei community. He also highlighted his history of frequent transfers and expressed his willingness to serve as the Deputy Commissioner in other districts that have been severely affected by the ongoing strife in the valley.
It has been seen that the ethnic strife had not sparred even bureaucrats who manage law and order, as they have been also targetted for attacks. Hence, Mr. Singh’s concerns and fear for his safety are not unfounded.
